Saudi Arabia’s Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has banned cosmetic products for external use from being sold in syringe-style packaging, effective January 1, 2027, in a move aimed at preventing cosmetics from being mistaken for injectable pharmaceutical products.
In a circular sent to cosmetic manufacturers and importers, the SFDA said it had identified external-use products being sold in packaging resembling syringes, ampoules, and vials — a design choice authorities say creates confusion with medical injectable products.
Syringe Packaging Banned; Ampoules and Vials Must Carry Warnings
Under the new rules, cosmetics packaged in syringes will no longer be permitted in the Saudi market. Products sold in ampoules and vials will still be allowed, but their inner and outer packaging must carry clear warnings in both Arabic and English stating that the product is for external cosmetic use only and must not be injected.
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The labels must also instruct users to avoid contact with the eyes and to handle the packaging carefully when opening it.
Advertising Restrictions Also Introduced
The SFDA has additionally banned advertising and promotional material that implies such products can be injected or administered using any skin-penetrating device, closing off another avenue through which cosmetics could be misrepresented as injectable treatments.
Compliance Deadline Set for End of 2026
Manufacturers, importers, and other businesses have until December 31, 2026, to withdraw non-compliant products from the market or update their packaging and labeling to meet the new standards.
The authority said legal action will be taken against products and companies that fail to comply after the deadline.
